Syphilis Testing near me in St. Louis, Missouri

Who should get tested for syphilis?

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting syphilis, especially those with multiple sexual partners or those who engage in unprotected sex. It is particularly important for pregnant women to get tested, as syphilis can be passed to the unborn child, potentially leading to serious health complications. According to the CDC, men who have sex with men and individuals living with HIV are also at a higher risk.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for syphilis is crucial as it can lead to severe health problems if left untreated, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection allows for effective treatment, usually involving antibiotics. Regular testing is also key in preventing the spread of the disease to others.

Syphilis testing options in St. Louis, MO:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer quick and convenient syphilis testing services. Mercy-GoHealth Urgent Care in Clayton, MO, highly rated with 4.8 stars from over 3000 reviews, is one such location where you can book same-day or next-day appointments through Solv.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable source for syphilis testing. Regular check-ups with your primary care provider can include STD/STI testing, ensuring consistent monitoring of your sexual health.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those with financial constraints, free STD testing and community health centers in St. Louis offer an accessible option. These centers are dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services, including syphilis testing, to underserved populations.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits provide a private and convenient option for syphilis testing. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of syphilis in St. Louis

St. Louis, MO, has seen a concerning rise in syphilis cases in recent years. This trend mirrors a national increase in syphilis cases, according to the CDC. In comparison to nearby counties such as Fulton County and Stewart County, St. Louis has a higher prevalence of syphilis, indicating a need for increased awareness and testing in the area.

Risk factors related to syphilis in St. Louis

Risk factors for syphilis in St. Louis include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use. The city's high prevalence of syphilis may also be attributed to social and economic factors such as lack of access to healthcare, poverty, and stigma associated with STD testing.

Other STDs in St. Louis

In addition to syphilis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and hepatitis are also prevalent in St. Louis. Regular testing for all STDs/STIs is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially given the availability of over 40 testing locations in the area.